Crystal-clear turquoise water at a cenote surrounded by lush jungle greenery in the Riviera Maya, Mexico, with wooden steps leading into the pool.

If the Riviera Maya is on your 2026 wish list, you’re not alone. Between new resort openings, beloved favourites getting a glow-up, and more flight options than ever from Canadian cities, next year’s beach season is already making waves.

And while it might feel early to start planning, the truth is - 2026 space is already being snapped up. The Riviera Maya has always been a hotspot, but with new brands moving in and others rebranding for the luxury crowd, the “sweet spot” between availability and value doesn’t stay open for long.

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What’s New for 2026

Here’s what’s stirring excitement along the Riviera Maya and Cancún corridor.

Paraiso de la Bonita – A Luxury Collection Resort, Riviera Maya
Relaunched under Marriott’s Luxury Collection banner, this adults-only all-inclusive brings understated elegance and stellar service to Puerto Morelos. Think fresh interiors, refined dining, and the kind of low-key glamour that never feels try-hard.

Boats anchored in turquoise water along the beach in Puerto Morelos, Mexico, with the town’s leaning lighthouse and palm-lined shoreline in the background.

Kimpton Tres Ríos All-Inclusive Resort
Formerly Hacienda Tres Ríos, the transformation is underway. When it reopens under Kimpton’s boutique-luxury brand in 2026, expect eco-conscious design and stylish all-inclusive comfort—perfect for travellers who like a side of sustainability with their spa days.

Alila Mayakoba
Tucked into the lush Mayakoba complex, the former Andaz Mayakoba is being reborn as Latin America’s first Alila resort. Expect serenity, design-forward suites, and wellness at the heart of every detail.

In short, 2026 is bringing a more elevated kind of all-inclusive. The same turquoise water, but a whole new layer of sophistication.

What’s Back (and Better Than Ever)

If you have a soft spot for the classics, you’ll be happy to hear that several favourites have had a serious refresh.

Luxury poolside cabana overlooking the infinity pool and ocean at Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Riviera Maya, Mexico, surrounded by palm trees and modern resort design.

Royalton Riviera Cancun reopens in December 2025 after a top-to-bottom renovation with upgraded suites, new restaurant concepts, and reimagined pool areas.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba has completed a multimillion-dollar renovation of its villas and family residences, dialing up modern comfort while keeping that quiet jungle-meets-lagoon magic intact.

Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort is wrapping up major enhancements ahead of its grand reopening in late 2025, with fresh interiors, revamped dining, and a sleeker beachfront vibe.

Even Hacienda Tres Ríos, which reopened in late 2024, continues to evolve as it prepares for its full Kimpton rebrand. It’s a reminder that the Riviera Maya doesn’t just rest on its laurels—it reinvents itself beautifully.

Let's Plan Your Riviera Maya Escape

Why Book Early for 2026

Between Canadians chasing the sun, limited nonstop flights, and an influx of brand loyalists eager to try the new properties, 2026 is already trending busy.

Palm trees and lounge chairs surrounding the turquoise pool at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, Mexico, with a thatched-roof palapa and tropical plants under a dramatic sky.

Booking early isn’t about fear of missing out, it’s about freedom of choice. The best room categories, flight times, and promotional offers always go first. And if you’ve ever debated between “swim-up suite” and “garden view” only to find one sold out, you already know how that story ends.

Early planners get the better flight times, the ocean-view rooms, and often the extra resort credits that make an already-great trip even better.

Why the Riviera Maya Keeps Me Coming Back

I’ve watched the Riviera Maya evolve over the years - from laid-back hideaways to all-inclusive resorts that rival boutique hotels in Europe - and it still holds its place as one of my favourite beach destinations for Canadians.

It’s reliable sunshine, endless variety, and incredible value, wrapped in Mexican hospitality that never misses a beat. Whether you’re going back to your favourite spot or ready to try somewhere new, 2026 has “best trip yet” written all over it.

Tacos with lime wedges on a blue and white tile table

Time to Trade To-Dos for Tacos

If you’re already daydreaming about palm trees while the rain hits your window, you’re not the only one. Let’s start mapping out your Riviera Maya 2026 escape before the best options disappear.

I’ll help you find the resort that fits your travel style, sort out the flights, and make sure the only thing on your to-do list is deciding which sandals to pack - and which tacos to try first.

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